Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.History: Founded as a missions organisation, Cliff College has been training people for Christian mission, evangelism and service since 1883.
Address: Cliff is situated in Hope Valley in Derbyshire. It is located on the A623, the main Manchester to Chesterfield road. Hope Valley lies at the heart of the beautiful Peak District National Park by the river Derwent and close to Curbar and Froggatt Edges. Sheffield is 12 miles away, Manchester 30 miles and Bakewell five miles.
Ambience: A Christian community where spiritual as well as academic support is given to all students. Evangelism is a high priority and students are given the opportunity to undertake a variety of missions and placements each year. Beautiful location - you can see the Emperor Fountain at Chatsworth (Pemberley in the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice) from the top of the college grounds.
Who's the boss? Rev Dr Chris Blake.
Prospectus: 01246 584 200 or visit the website here.
UCAS code: C72
What you need to know
Easy to get into? More emphasis is placed on Christian commitment than results, although they will need to see a track record of academic achievements. At undergraduate level there is an open access policy, at postgraduate a good first degree is the norm, and at PhD level a Master’s level qualification is the norm, although other qualifications can be considered.
Courses: A range of BA, MA and PhD programmes in theology, mission, children’s and youth ministry, emerging church, Wesleyan spirituality and leadership. All degrees are validated by the University of Manchester.
Vital statistics: Part of the Methodist Church and the worldwide tradition of Wesleyan Holiness. About 310 students of which 60 are full-time. Students from many different nationalities and Christian traditions.
Added value: Surrounding the college are the dales, caves, rivers and historic houses of north Derbyshire. Also within easy reach are two of the country's leading adventure and theme parks, and the shopping malls, sports facilities, and nightlife of Sheffield and Manchester.
Any accommodation? Yes - there are 70 study bedrooms in the main college building, including 30 en-suite, which cost roughly £100 per week, full board. Other full-time students live in the surrounding area.
Cheap to live there? Most students are part-time, and so live at home or in their own properties. A shared flat in nearby Sheffield will cost £64 per week, on average.
Transport links: Cliff is 15 miles from the M1 motorway, 10 miles from Chesterfield, and 12 miles from Sheffield. There is a regular bus service to all the local centres from the college, and mainline railway stations at Chesterfield (10 miles) and Sheffield (12 miles). There are regular trains to Sheffield and Manchester from Grindleford (3 miles).
Fees: Undergrad degrees are £5,800 per year while postgrads pay £4,640. Mission and Ministry (MM) diploma courses cost £2,395 per year.
Bursaries: A limited bursary scheme is available. Contact the college for details.
The fun stuff
Nightlife: Social activities include gigs, discos, special dinners, dance classes, table-tennis, football, video games, choir and outdoor pursuits.
Sporting reputation: Not known for sport at all but with the Peak District so close, outdoor pursuits are popular. Try horse riding or hill walking. The campus also has a gym.
Glittering alumni: A number of students have gone on to have prominent roles in the church in a number of Christian denominations and organisations.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments